Duncan's Story

Duncan Lawrence's arrival was a big surprise for his parents, Amanda an English professor at Young Harris College and Tom an engineer for Universal Avionics.  The couple came to Chattanooga from their home in Blairsville, Georgia for a routine doctor visit at Erlanger.   During Amanda’s examination, the Lawrences learned that the baby was soon to arrive.

Amanda and Tom were quickly moved to the high risk prenatal unit at Erlanger with the expectation that Amanda would be put on bed rest for a month or so to allow the baby to develop further before delivery.   But within just a few hours they were welcoming their new bundle of joy.

On Friday, May 18, 2007, at 10:43 p.m., Duncan Adams Lawrence was born weighing 1 lb. 7 oz. and 12.25 inches long.  Born at 24 weeks, the new parents were excited and understood there would be some waiting involved before Duncan would be strong enough to come home with them.

Days later, Amanda and Tom walked through the doors of Ronald McDonald House not knowing what to expect, with very little idea on how long they would stay.  Their stay lasted over four months, but the Lawrence’s say their source of hope came from sharing their story with other parents in similar situations at the Ronald McDonald House. 

“This place has been a sanctuary; a Godsend.  It has taken food and shelter off our worry list and allowed us to focus on our little boy.”

Ronald McDonald House allows families to stay together in a comfortable private room, enjoy a warm meal, relax and find support through other families.

Tom and Amanda celebrated Duncan’s homecoming on September 23.  They say he is now an active toddler who keeps his parents on their toes.